FPL seeks nod for 1.5-GW community solar programme

(PRNewsfoto/Florida Power & Light Company)

March 15 (Renewables Now) - US utility Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) is seeking regulatory approval for a new community solar programme that will see it expand its photovoltaic (PV) portfolio by 1,490 MW.

The plan has been filed for review with the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC), and if approved, the new solar capacity will be operational by 2021, the utility said on Wednesday. The plan is for FPL to build 20 PV farms across its service territory so as to meet expected customer demand in the new programme, touted as the largest of its kind in the US.

The new assets are anticipated to bring about USD 139 million (EUR 122.8m) in net savings to FPL’s clients over the long term, the utility calculates. By enrolling in the so-called FPL SolarTogether programme, they will be entitled to direct credits that will lower their monthly bills. "This program will more than double the amount of community solar currently in the US," said CEO Eric Silagy.

The first six solar plants, each comprising about 300,000 solar panels with a total capacity of 74.5 MW, are planned to go online in early 2020. The remaining 14 are scheduled for completion in 2021.

Veselina Petrova is one of SeeNews Renewables most experienced green energy writers. For several years she has been keeping track of game-changing events both large and small projects and across the globe.